I Sold My Book: Now What? (by Anna Staniszewski)
I’m delighted to have author (and agency sibling) Anna Staniszewski as a guest on Making Tyme! Read on, as she shares her practical wisdom for new authors on what to expect – and what to do – after that first wondrous book sale.
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I Sold My Book: Now What?
by Anna Staniszewski
I Sold My Book: Now What?
by Anna Staniszewski
Congratulations! You’ve sold a book! Make sure to jump around and celebrate and enjoy the moment! And then what? Well, I’m sure it’s different for everyone, but here’s what I’ve come to expect after the sale.
1. Get back to work. I know you just spent all that time writing, revising, querying, stressing. Don’t you deserve a break? Yes, but not too long of a break. The worst thing you can do after you sell a book is sit back and wait; you’ll be waiting a long, long time. The best thing you can do is start working on something new.
2. Think about your audience. Soon you’ll be getting emails from your publisher asking you for bios, marketing information, cover ideas, people to approach for blurbs, etc. Make sure you have a good understanding of who your target readers are so that you know how to answer these questions.
3. Create a marketing plan. The word “marketing” causes many of us to panic, but all it really means is figuring out ways to make people aware that your book exists. That could include reaching out to librarians and local booksellers, setting up book signings and school visits, or organizing social media campaigns. Your publicist will do some of that, but it’s good to have your own plan. Most importantly, do what you feel comfortable with, don’t beat yourself up for not doing enough, and don’t let it take too much time away from your writing.
4. Make swag. Having some book-related swag can be great, but it probably won’t sell books. Those toasters with your book cover on them are awesome, but are they really worth it? I personally get the most mileage out of bookmarks since they’re cheap, portable, and act like a business card. Feel free to get creative with your swag, but don’t go overboard!
4. Make friends. Having other authors to talk to and commiserate with (whether in person or online) is essential. You need people who understand what you’re going through and who can give tips and reassurance. If you’re supportive to others then those people will be your greatest supporters when your book comes out.
5. Celebrate. Your book is almost out. Hooray! Make sure to have a launch party to celebrate. Not only will this make your release feel more real, but it will also give your family and friends a chance to be part of your accomplishment.
6. Get back to work. Seriously. All of this other stuff is great, but make sure you to keep working on your next book. All the other stuff is fun and exciting, but remember that you’re a writer first.
Born in Poland and raised in the United States, Anna Staniszewski grew up loving stories in both Polish and English. Currently, she lives outside Boston with her husband and their crazy dog. When she’s not writing, Anna spends her time reading, daydreaming, and challenging unicorns to games of hopscotch. She is the author of the My Very UnFairy Tale Life series and the Dirt Diary series. Her newest book, The Prank List, releases on July 1st from Sourcebooks. You can visit Anna at www.annastan.com.
06/13/2014 at 5:30 am
Thanks so much for having me!